As preparations intensify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, the Head Coach of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Aliyu Zubairu, has revealed plans to invite new players to strengthen all departments of the team.

Speaking at the Kwara SWAN Hard Talk on Monday, at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Sports Centre, SWAN Secretariat, George Agbazika Innih Stadium, Ilorin, Coach Zubairu admitted that his squad struggled with goal conversion during the recently concluded U-20 AFCON in Morocco.

He assured that the upcoming additions would bring more balance and efficiency, addressing key deficiencies observed in the team.

“We’ll be inviting more players to bolster all departments. We must fix the issues we saw at the AFCON, especially our finishing,” he said.

Coach Zubairu, who was recently recognized by his Agbarere community, noted that handling pressure, both positive and negative, as an integral part of football.

According to him, the ability to manage expectations is what separates successful coaches.

“Though we narrowly missed the AFCON title, qualifying for the World Cup is a huge achievement. Now, we must look ahead and do even better.”

The El-Kanemi Warriors coach also expressed his ambition to surpass the 2005 silver winning feat set by Samson Siasia, who led Nigeria to the final of the U20 World Cup that year.

On the just concluded 2024/25 NPFL season, Coach Zubairu lamented El-Kanemi’s struggles, attributing them to lack of cohesion with mid-season signings and the exit of two key players to Europe.

“It was unfortunate. The new additions couldn’t adapt quickly, and losing two key players mid-season disrupted our rhythm.”

Coach Zubairu extended his best wishes to Kwara United FC ahead of their President Federation Cup final in Lagos on June 28, stating: “Kwara United has what it takes to emerge champions. I wish them all the best.”